Negros oriental: The Negros Oriental Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) is advising local disaster management groups to reassess their geohazard maps to adapt to evolving weather conditions, an official stated on Tuesday. The recommendation follows a weekend of unprecedented heavy rainfall, particularly affecting the northern towns, leading to widespread flooding, landslides, and disruptions in power and water supplies, alongside obstructed roads.

According to Philippines News Agency, PDRRMO head Adrian Sedillo attributed the unusual rainfall levels to the shear line. He pointed out that observations from various Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Offices (DRRMOs) indicated that floodwaters were charting new courses, including flowing through central district areas. This deviation resulted in the displacement of hundreds of residents and revealed vulnerabilities in sub-standard infrastructures.

Sedillo emphasized that revisiting the hazard maps, with support from the Mines and Geosciences Bureau, is crucial for identifying areas that require immediate additional engineering interventions to mitigate future flooding risks. The DRRMOs highlighted that silted rivers contributed to rapidly rising water levels due to the shallow riverbeds.

Furthermore, Sedillo mentioned that he has sought assistance from the province's Environment and Natural Resources Division to explore the possibility of dredging the rivers. However, he noted that the Department of Public Works and Highways is responsible for evaluating the components of the rivers.